# columnist

/ˈkɑɫəmnəst/ (US) · /kˈɒləmnˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/columnist
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a writer who produces a regular series of articles for a newspaper or magazine. These writers usually share their personal opinions on news, politics, or lifestyle topics.

For teachers: a journalist who contributes a regular series of articles to a publication, typically expressing a personal perspective or specialized expertise.

## Examples

- She works as a political columnist for a national newspaper.
- The local columnist wrote a moving piece about the history of the town's oldest park.
- While reporters are expected to maintain strict objectivity, the columnist is granted the freedom to use a more subjective and provocative voice to engage the readership.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with a modifier to specify the subject matter, such as 'sports columnist' or 'gossip columnist'.

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